32nd Annual White Linen Night
White Linen Night 2026 is the perfect way to kick off August, with thousands of people dressed in white and strolling down Julia Street.
White Linen Fest is a well-known attraction for locals and tourists alike. As one of New Orleans' signature summer cultural traditions, the night is filled with art, music, and food, all bringing the community together.
A Night Dressed in White
Arts District New Orleans (ADNO) first held White Linen Fest in 1994, in conjunction with their gallery openings on the first Saturday of each month. For the past 32 years, the tradition of wearing white linen and partying through New Orleans' Arts District has been a lively way to check out art exhibits and appreciate the unique art style of the city. An opportunity for emerging and established artists to debut exhibitions, the festival has a significant economic impact on local galleries and artists. As one of the city's biggest annual arts celebrations, the festival reinforces New Orleans' identity as a city where visual art, music, food, and culture intersect.
ADNO is a non-profit organization with a mission to support artists, galleries, museums, restaurants, and other local businesses. Dedicated to fostering the growth of the arts in the Big Easy, ADNO started this annual celebration to further recognize the significance of art in the community. In addition to their monthly Saturday gallery openings, ADNO organizes annual events such as Jammin' on Julia and Art for Arts' Sake. White Linen Night is sponsored by Fidelity Bank.
Celebrating the Canvas
This year's event will include new gallery exhibitions debuting throughout the Arts District, featuring world-class art installations by the talented artists represented. There will be pieces unveiled from museums such as the Ogden Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and dozens of galleries throughout the Arts District, along with a fashion show at the Boulier Gallery organized by various local designers and models.
The event is interactive with the community, featuring live music on the Main Stage and the NOCCA Stage by the likes of Irvin Mayfield, Robin Barnes, and NOCCA students/alumni. There will also be vendors and food trucks lining the street, transforming the Arts District into a a walkable, open-air celebration of contemporary art. Along with cocktails and lounge experiences, guests can also purchase special ticketed experiences such as the Cool Down Lounge at 420 Julia and a raffle, alongside the free public festivities.
There will also be an after-party at Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., which requires tickets.
Mark Your Calendar (and Find Your Fit)
Taking place on August 1 from 5 to 10 p.m., the festival is centered around the 300 to 600 blocks of Julia Street and the surrounding Warehouse District. The event extends into nearby galleries, museums, businesses, and partner venues. To support local artists and galleries, stop by White Linen Night this year to discover extraordinary artists and celebrate the creative energy that makes New Orleans one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the world.
For an optimal experience, it is highly encouraged to don your best, lightweight, white clothing with comfortable shoes. Plan to arrive early, and consider a rideshare or public transportation due to limited parking. Try to arrive early in order to visit all of the galleries and outdoor attractions while also allowing time to stop for a drink or two and a fun dinner. Lastly, keep an eye out for the event map beforehand to prioritize must-see exhibitions.
For more information and to purchase tickets for specific experiences, check out ADNO's website or Instagram.
